Senator Harper Angel says extra road funds will bring improvements to Jefferson

March 28, 2005, FRANKFORT - Local governments in Jefferson County will receive additional funds for roads under the budget passed by the Kentucky General Assembly.

"City and county budgets have been squeezed in recent years and these dollars for the basics should really help," said Senator Denise Harper Angel, D-Jefferson.

Jefferson County will receive $536,562 over its current road fund allocation, which can be used for bridges and paving and rehabilitation of existing roads. For city streets and bridges, Louisville will receive an extra $3.3 million; Shively, $200,464; West Beuchel: $17,206; and Lynnview, $12,762.

The extra dollars come from a $150 million bond fund legislators created in the budget for roads. Half of the additional money comes directly back to counties and cities, based on population and the formulas set up under the law for the County Road Aid Program and the Municipal Road Aid Program. The funds come from gasoline taxes.

In addition, counties and cities will be able to obtain funding for road projects by applying to Bill Nighbert, Commissioner for the Department of Intergovernmental Programs with the Transportation Cabinet.

"This money is desperately needed. We must make sure our roads and bridges are well maintained and safe," Harper Angel said.